Whether you’ve just graduated or want to switch careers you’re more than likely going to experience some form of rejection.
This is completely normal and shouldn’t be dwelled on because there will always be more opportunities. Now, that is easier said than done so here are ways to pick yourself back up and try again!
It may not feel like it at the time, but a failed interview can be looked at as an opportunity for an even better job. The Dalai Lama stated, “Sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.” Think about it this way: the universe has something better planned for you. There really is some truth to the saying, “when one door closes another door opens.” When you do finally land that position you want, you’ll look back and feel relieved that these were the cards you were dealt.
Now that you’ve gotten over the initial rejection, learn from it. Reflect on how it went and where you could have done better. If you weren’t as prepared as you would have liked, prep yourself more next time. If your nerves got the best of you and didn’t allow you to really shine and be yourself, try to relax more next time. There’s always room for improvement and believe it or not, interviewing takes practice. You can even set up mock interviews with the career center at your school. Get feedback, take notes and work on your weaknesses.
If you have your heart set on a position, contact the interviewer. No matter how terrible the interview went, always send an amazing thank you note or e-mail.
What you showcase in that e-mail could very well change their minds. If then you still get rejected, ask for a second chance. What have you got to lose at this point? Who knows, they may appreciate your persistence. The worst they can say is no and that’s when you can decide to move on.Getting turned down is the worst, trust us, we’ve been there. As silly as it may sound, think about the first time you fell off your bike, your first major break-up or your first bad grade. Think about how you felt then and look at where you are now. Newsflash, you survived. You got over it. You moved on. You managed to get back on the bike, be happy and date again and you managed to improve your grades. It takes resilience and determination. Don’t worry—you got this!
(Feature Photo via We Heart It)